Key Information Summary
- School Name: Sydenham High School GDST
- Type: Independent day school for girls
- Age Range: 4-18 years
- Location: 19 Westwood Hill, Sydenham, London SE26 6BL
- Founded: 1887 (Girls' Day School Trust)
- Headteacher: Ms Antonia Geldeard
- Pupils: Approximately 725 students
- Motto: "Fear Nothing"
- School Fees (2024/25):
- Senior School: £7,116 per term
- Prep School: £5,595 per term - Contact: 020 8557 7000
About Sydenham High School
Established in 1887 as part of the prestigious Girls' Day School Trust network, Sydenham High School has been nurturing confident, independent young women for over 135 years. Located in the leafy suburb of Sydenham in South East London, the school occupies an impressive Victorian building with modern facilities that blend heritage with contemporary educational excellence.
The school's motto "Fear Nothing" perfectly encapsulates its philosophy of empowering girls to embrace challenges with courage and determination. This ethos permeates every aspect of school life, from academic pursuits to extracurricular activities, creating an environment where girls flourish without the constraints often found in co-educational settings.
Sydenham High School operates across three distinct sections: the Prep School (ages 4-11), Senior School (ages 11-16), and Sixth Form (ages 16-18). Each section maintains its own identity whilst sharing the school's core values of academic rigour, personal development, and social responsibility. The school is particularly renowned for its strong STEM programmes, creative arts offerings, and comprehensive pastoral care system.
With approximately 725 pupils, the school maintains an intimate learning environment where every girl is known and valued. Class sizes are deliberately kept small to ensure personalised attention and support for each student's individual learning journey.
The 11+ Assessment Process
Sydenham High School's 11+ assessment is designed to identify girls who will thrive in the school's academically stimulating environment. The process typically takes place in the autumn term for entry the following September, with applications usually due by early November.
The assessment comprises several components:
Academic Testing
- Mathematics: Covers numerical reasoning, problem-solving, and mathematical concepts appropriate for Year 6 level
- English: Includes comprehension exercises, creative writing tasks, and grammar assessments
- Verbal Reasoning: Tests logical thinking and language skills through word-based puzzles
- Non-Verbal Reasoning: Evaluates spatial awareness and pattern recognition abilities
Interview Process
Shortlisted candidates attend an informal interview with senior staff members. This conversation allows the school to understand each girl's interests, motivations, and potential contribution to the school community. Girls are encouraged to discuss their hobbies, favourite subjects, and aspirations in a relaxed setting.
School Report Review
Current school reports and teacher references play a crucial role in the assessment process, providing insight into academic progress, attitude to learning, and social development.
The school seeks girls who demonstrate academic potential, curiosity, resilience, and the ability to contribute positively to the school's vibrant community atmosphere.
How to Apply
The application process for Sydenham High School follows a structured timeline that parents should carefully observe:
Application Timeline
- September: Registration opens and school tours commence
- Early November: Application deadline (specific date varies annually)
- January: Assessment days for 11+ candidates
- February: Results notification and offer letters sent
- March: Acceptance deadline for offered places
Required Documentation
- Completed application form (available online)
- Most recent school report
- Teacher reference from current school
- Registration fee (non-refundable)
- Any relevant additional information (SEN requirements, exceptional circumstances)
School Visits
The school strongly encourages prospective families to attend open events or arrange individual tours. These visits provide invaluable insight into the school's atmosphere, facilities, and educational approach. Virtual tours and online information sessions are also available for families unable to visit in person.
Early registration is highly recommended as places are competitive, and the school operates a first-come, first-served policy for assessment invitations when applications exceed available places.
How Taylor Tuition Can Help
As specialists in independent school admissions, Taylor Tuition understands the unique requirements of Sydenham High School's 11+ assessment process. Our comprehensive preparation programme is specifically tailored to help your daughter succeed in gaining admission to this exceptional institution.
Personalised Academic Preparation
Our expert tutors provide focused preparation in all four core assessment areas: Mathematics, English, Verbal Reasoning, and Non-Verbal Reasoning. We use practice papers that mirror Sydenham High School's assessment style, ensuring your daughter feels confident and prepared on the day.
Interview Coaching
Our interview preparation sessions help girls articulate their thoughts clearly and confidently whilst remaining natural and authentic. We practice discussing academic interests, extracurricular activities, and personal aspirations in a way that resonates with Sydenham High School's values.
Strategic Application Support
We guide families through the entire application process, from initial registration to acceptance decisions. Our team provides timeline management, documentation review, and strategic advice on positioning your daughter as an ideal candidate for Sydenham High School.
Ongoing Academic Development
Beyond test preparation, we focus on developing the analytical thinking, problem-solving skills, and academic confidence that will serve your daughter throughout her time at Sydenham High School and beyond.
With our deep understanding of independent school admissions and proven track record of success, Taylor Tuition ensures your daughter is exceptionally well-prepared to secure her place at Sydenham High School and thrive in its nurturing yet challenging environment.
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